28338, Ellerbe, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28338, Ellerbe, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28338 (Fayetteville, NC)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the vicinity of ZIP code 28338 (Fayetteville, North Carolina), considering factors crucial to patient well-being: quality of care, accessibility, specialized services, and technological integration. This analysis aims to empower residents with the information needed to make informed healthcare decisions.

**The Contenders:**

The primary hospitals serving the 28338 area include Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, Womack Army Medical Center, and several smaller facilities offering specialized services. This review will focus on the two major players, as they represent the most comprehensive care options.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center: A Deep Dive**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a flagship facility in the region, holds a significant presence in the community. This hospital is a large, acute care facility, serving as a regional referral center. Its size and scope contribute to its overall score, but specific performance metrics are crucial to a thorough evaluation.

**CMS Star Rating:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality measures. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center currently holds a respectable, but not exceptional, **3-star rating** from CMS. This rating reflects performance across various categories, including patient experience, safety of care, and effectiveness of care. While a 3-star rating indicates adequate performance, it suggests room for improvement compared to higher-rated facilities.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility and efficiency. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's ER wait times fluctuate, often exceeding the national average. Patients can expect to wait, on average, **around 45-60 minutes** to see a provider, and total time in the ER can be significantly longer, particularly during peak hours. This is a key area for improvement, as long wait times can negatively impact patient outcomes and satisfaction.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center boasts a range of specialized centers. Their Heart & Vascular Center offers comprehensive cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The hospital also has a well-regarded cancer center, providing radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. The Women's Pavilion offers comprehensive obstetrical and gynecological care. The hospital's commitment to specialized care enhances its overall score.

**Telehealth Integration:** Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for healthcare access. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas and those needing follow-up care. The hospital's telehealth initiatives contribute positively to its score, reflecting a commitment to modern healthcare delivery.

**Womack Army Medical Center: Serving the Military Community**

Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC) serves the military community at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg) and surrounding areas. Its mission focuses on providing comprehensive healthcare to active-duty military personnel, their families, and retirees. WAMC's unique patient population and operational structure warrant a distinct evaluation.

**CMS Star Rating:** As a military hospital, Womack Army Medical Center is not directly rated by CMS in the same way as civilian hospitals. However, WAMC adheres to rigorous standards set by the Department of Defense and the Joint Commission. While a direct star rating is unavailable, WAMC's commitment to quality and patient safety is evident through its accreditation and internal performance metrics.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** WAMC's ER wait times are often more efficient than those at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, particularly for active-duty personnel. However, wait times can increase during peak hours and in response to military operations. Data on specific wait times can be challenging to obtain, but anecdotal evidence suggests a generally quicker turnaround compared to the civilian hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** WAMC offers a wide array of specialized services tailored to the unique needs of its patient population. These include specialized trauma care, behavioral health services, and comprehensive rehabilitation programs. The hospital's focus on military-specific health issues, such as traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder, is a significant strength. WAMC also provides robust surgical capabilities and a strong primary care network.

**Telehealth Integration:** WAMC has embraced telehealth to enhance access to care for its beneficiaries. They offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and tele-mental health services, particularly beneficial for soldiers deployed overseas or those living in remote areas. This commitment to telehealth aligns with the modern healthcare landscape.

**Comparing the Two: A Head-to-Head**

Comparing Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Womack Army Medical Center requires acknowledging their distinct missions and patient populations. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center serves a broader civilian population, while WAMC focuses on the military community.

**Accessibility:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's ER wait times are a significant concern, while WAMC generally demonstrates better efficiency. However, access to WAMC is primarily restricted to eligible beneficiaries.

**Quality of Care:** While Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's CMS rating is adequate, WAMC's performance is measured through different metrics. Both hospitals offer a high level of care, but their specific strengths lie in different areas. Cape Fear Valley excels in its civilian-focused specialties, while WAMC excels in military-specific care.

**Specialty Services:** Both hospitals offer a comprehensive range of specialty services. Cape Fear Valley's Heart & Vascular Center and Cancer Center are notable strengths. WAMC's focus on military-specific health issues and its robust rehabilitation programs are significant assets.

**Telehealth:** Both hospitals have integrated telehealth to varying degrees, improving access to care.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** The hospital receives a solid overall score, reflecting its comprehensive services and commitment to care. However, its 3-star CMS rating and longer ER wait times are areas for improvement. Its strengths lie in its broad range of specialty services and its commitment to telehealth.

**Womack Army Medical Center:** WAMC also receives a strong overall score, particularly for its specialized services tailored to the military community and generally more efficient ER wait times. Its commitment to telehealth and its focus on military-specific health issues are significant strengths. The hospital's accessibility is limited to eligible beneficiaries.

**Additional Considerations:**

Beyond the two flagship hospitals, residents of the 28338 area have access to other healthcare providers, including smaller hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialized clinics. These facilities can supplement the services offered by the major hospitals, providing convenient access to care for specific needs.

**The Importance of Patient Choice:**

Ultimately, the best hospital for an individual depends on their specific healthcare needs and circumstances. Factors such as insurance coverage, the severity of the condition, and personal preferences should all be considered when making a healthcare decision. Patients are encouraged to research their options, ask questions, and consult with their primary care physicians to determine the most appropriate care setting.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 28338 offers a range of options for residents. Both Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Womack Army Medical Center provide valuable services to the community. While each hospital has its strengths and weaknesses, both are committed to providing quality care. By understanding the specific features of each facility, residents can make informed decisions and access the healthcare they need. This "Overall Health Score" review provides a starting point for that process, encouraging further investigation and personalized decision-making.